How To Automate Your Freelance Routine with AI

In the fast-paced world of freelancing, staying ahead requires more than just delivering great work. Today’s most successful freelancers are using AI and automation to save time, streamline operations, and connect with clients more effectively.

In this episode, we speak with Julien Look, a freelance software engineer who specializes in combining Fullstack Development with Data Science methods to build applications that are both user-centered and data-driven, and empowering businesses to lead the digital transformation 🤩

From this episode, you'll learn:

✅ How to build a tool stack that supports your freelance business.
✅ What types of tasks can (and should) be automated.
✅ How AI can help you pitch better, learn faster, and write more effectively.
✅ What it takes to build an agent that applies for freelance jobs on your behalf.
✅ Why automation isn’t about replacing yourself—it’s about making space to focus.

Watch now and take control of your freelance journey! 🚀

🎧 Or listen to it here on Spotify

Building a smarter freelance business with AI

AI is no longer just a nice-to-have—it’s a competitive edge. For Julien, tools like ChatGPT, NotebookLM, Notion AI, Make.com, and Crystal have become integral to daily operations. From content creation to automating job applications, the right tools enable freelancers to offload repetitive tasks and allocate more time to high-value activities.

He emphasizes that freelancers often operate with a "T-shaped" skill set—deep expertise in one area and broader knowledge in others. AI helps fill the gaps in those broader areas, whether it's writing persuasive proposals or drafting project strategies.

Automating the job hunt

One of the most impressive parts of Julien's setup is a semi-autonomous application system. Using tools like NotebookLM to extract data from his CV and ChatGPT to generate personalized application letters, he created a pipeline that applies to relevant projects automatically.

While still improving aspects like tone of voice and fact-checking, this automation significantly reduces the time he spends applying—without sacrificing quality.

Becoming a better communicator

Julien's journey with AI didn’t just improve efficiency—it reshaped how he positions his services. By using AI to test messaging and explore different value propositions, he became more confident in talking to clients.

Instead of focusing solely on technical deliverables, he now frames his work around outcomes businesses care about—like saving time, reducing costs, or gaining a competitive edge.

“Ironically, AI helped me sound less robotic and more human.”

Choosing the right tools (without getting overwhelmed)

With so many tools available, Julien takes a thoughtful approach. He tracks pain points in his workflow, looks for tools that directly solve those issues, and gives each new tool about three months before deciding whether to keep or replace it.

This mindset helps avoid “shiny object syndrome” and ensures every tool serves a purpose—whether it’s content creation, design support, meeting documentation, or lead personalization.

TL;DR

• Use AI to amplify your strengths and support your weaknesses.

• Start small—automate one process and build from there.

• AI can improve how you pitch, write, research, and present yourself.

• Automations free up time for high-impact work and personal growth.

• The right tools can help you run your freelance business more like a company.

5 quotes from this conversation

1️⃣ “As a freelancer, ChatGPT is like extra armor—it boosts the parts of your skill set that aren’t fully developed yet.”
2️⃣ “I automated my job application process and now apply to more projects, faster, and with better personalization.”
3️⃣ “Don’t start with the trendiest tool—start by identifying what’s slowing you down and fix that.”
4️⃣ “With AI, I’ve moved from sounding overly technical to being more approachable and business-focused.”
5️⃣ “Every automation I build brings me closer to the work I actually want to be doing.”